Intern at The University of British Columbia in Williams Lake, BC
I am beginning my first co-op work term as an intern with the Alex Fraser Research Forest, which works in conjunction with the University of British Columbia. I have been working alongside RPFs to conduct a variety of surveys and learn what it means to be a professional forester. During this term, I learned how to conduct regeneration surveys that help the team understand the current state of the prescribed cutblocks and how trees are doing years after being planted. As well, I have had the opportunity to do quality checks and pay plots for planting prescriptions, and timber cruises to assess the volume and quality of timber to value potential harvest. Overall, I have had the opportunity to constantly improve my tree identification skills, data entry proficiency, problem-solving skill, and navigation skills, ultimately developing my understanding of forestry in a professional setting. By having my boots on the ground during this co-op experience I have reinforced my desire to pursue a career as an RPF. Through this engaging and informative experience, I have learned the value and influence that professionals can have and I am inspired by the people I work with to create the change I want to see in our forests, for the future.